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Ross Township proclaims Jan. 1 'Keith Balau Day' and honors outgoing trustee
Summary
Trustees unanimously proclaimed Jan. 1, 2026 as 'Keith Balau Day' and presented a proclamation highlighting Keith Balau’s military service, long public-safety career and eight years on the Ross Township Board of Trustees; Jennifer Gross offered state-level recognition on behalf of the Ohio House.
Ross Township trustees on Nov. 17, 2025 unanimously approved a proclamation declaring Jan. 1, 2026 as "Keith Balau Day," honoring Trustee Keith Balau for more than four decades of public service in the township and region.
The proclamation summarizes Balau's record cited by trustees: service in the U.S. Marine Corps (1982–1985), long-term roles in Ross Township fire and police services, years as a snowplow driver and eight years as a township trustee. The proclamation noted his volunteer start with the fire department in 1989, promotion to captain, and 17 years with the Ross Township Police Department.
Trustee remarks and the formal reading of the proclamation highlighted Balau's community leadership and personal acknowledgements of family and colleagues. Balau thanked attendees and reflected on his decades of service: "I've loved every minute of it," he said, recounting early training, public-safety work and memories of serving the township.
Jennifer Gross, speaking as a representative of the Ohio House (and acknowledging Speaker Matt Huffman), extended the legislature's appreciation and praised Balau's civic contributions to Ross Township and Butler County.
Trustees concluded the meeting with applause, a family photo opportunity and a small reception.
